Following the Sejm’s approval of legislation establishing a “closest person” status and cohabitation agreements on Friday, May 29, Robert Biedroń has requested a meeting with President Karol Nawrocki to discuss the bill.
Presidential Opposition to the Legislation
On Friday, May 29, the Sejm passed laws regarding the status of a “closest person” in a relationship and cohabitation agreements. President Karol Nawrocki immediately responded, announcing he would not sign any law that serves as an alternative to traditional marriage, citing his role as guardian of the Constitution.
Nawrocki emphasized that the Polish Constitution defines marriage strictly as a union between a man and a woman. He indicated he is open to signing non-ideological legislation that facilitates administrative and formal cooperation between individuals without undermining the unique status of marriage.
Biedroń’s Call for Dialogue
Left-wing MEP Robert Biedroń announced on TVN24’s “Fakty po Faktach” that he intends to contact the Presidential Chancellery to request a meeting with Nawrocki. Biedroń argued that the President likely misunderstands the legislation, which he described as a far-reaching compromise.
Biedroń noted that he has waited nearly a quarter of a century for such a legal solution, questioning, “Can one wait longer than a whole lifetime?” He clarified that while this bill is not the end of his push for full equality, including same-sex marriage, it remains a critical step forward.
Political Reactions and Legislative Context
Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized the President’s stance, stating that the law applies to both heterosexual and homosexual partnerships. Tusk expressed doubt regarding the President’s willingness to help, noting that Nawrocki finds it easier to veto and block initiatives than to assist citizens.
The legislation passed with 230 votes in favor and 198 against, marking the first time the lower house has approved a regulation allowing for the formalization of same-sex relationships. The bill allows adult individuals to register a notarized agreement at the Registry Office to establish property rights, alimony obligations, and access to medical information.
Demographic Shifts in Poland
Data from the 2021 National Census reveals that while the number of marriages in Poland is declining, the number of informal relationships is rising. Between 2011 and 2021, the number of such cohabiting couples grew from 316,500 to 552,800.
Public support for same-sex marriage has also seen a significant increase over the last two decades. CBOS polling indicates that support rose from 24 percent in June 2001 to 44 percent in August 2024.
